Ann Coulter infamously cast soccer as a tool of the invading hordes that seek to destroy the United States. Decades ago, however, Americans within the sport made many of the same xenophobic arguments to protect a particular style of play.

Spain has been the best team in international soccer for several years, and Xavi Hernandez has been the player most important to their success and identity. Yet, after many difficulties in the Confederations Cup and broader changes in club soccer, is it time to phase him out of the team's plans?

Lionel Messi is perhaps the most fun-to-watch soccer player on earth. But, of all people, Messi's Argentine countrymen seem incapable of fully enjoying or embracing this most joyous and embraceable of stars. There are reasons for this, but they have little to do with Leo.